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Contents
- The climate of Mbarara
- The best time to visit Mbarara
- The worst time to visit Mbarara
- Spring weather in Mbarara
- Summer weather in Mbarara
- Autumn weather in Mbarara
- Winter weather in Mbarara
- Weather in January
- Weather in February
- Weather in March
- Weather in April
- Weather in May
- Weather in June
- Weather in July
- Weather in August
- Weather in September
- Weather in October
- Weather in November
- Weather in December
- Frequently asked questions
- Average temperature
- Average pressure
- Average wind speed
- Average humidity
- Average rainfall
- Average rainfall days
- Average daylight
- Average sunshine
- Average sunshine days
- Average UV index
- Average cloud cover
- Average visibility
Climate and monthly weather forecast
The climate of Mbarara
Situated in Uganda, Mbarara is characterized by a Tropical wet and dry climate, also known as savanna type climate, by the Köppen climate classification. This predominantly 'Aw' climate typifies distinct wet and dry periods supplemented by warm temperatures throughout the year. With relatively stable daylight hours of approximately 12.1 hours each month, the annual temperature fluctuation is subtle with average highs ranging from 23.2°C (73.8°F) to 27.3°C (81.1°F) and lows from 14.4°C (57.9°F) to 17.5°C (63.5°F).
Mbarara's climate reveals significant differences in rainfall across diverse periods. A particularly rain-laden period is observed between March to May and October to November, with the largest average rainfall of 240mm (9.45") in October. Contrarily, markedly less rainfall is witnessed from June to September, with the lowest amount of 49mm (1.93") occurring in June.
Humidity levels fluctuate from 62% to 86%, with maximum readings typically detected in rain-heavy periods. Mbarara's sunshine hours also oscillate slightly, reaching their peak of 9.6 hours in January and dipping to a low of 8.3 hours during May. The yearly UV Index remains consistently moderate around 5 to 6, indicating fair exposure levels to ultraviolet radiation.
Mbarara's climate reveals significant differences in rainfall across diverse periods. A particularly rain-laden period is observed between March to May and October to November, with the largest average rainfall of 240mm (9.45") in October. Contrarily, markedly less rainfall is witnessed from June to September, with the lowest amount of 49mm (1.93") occurring in June.
Humidity levels fluctuate from 62% to 86%, with maximum readings typically detected in rain-heavy periods. Mbarara's sunshine hours also oscillate slightly, reaching their peak of 9.6 hours in January and dipping to a low of 8.3 hours during May. The yearly UV Index remains consistently moderate around 5 to 6, indicating fair exposure levels to ultraviolet radiation.
The best time to visit Mbarara
The optimal time to visit Mbarara coincides with the dry months of June to September. During these months, the lower rainfall, coupled with slightly cooler temperatures, provides a pleasant climate conducive to outdoor activities. Furthermore, the reduced rainfall is accompanied by lower humidity levels, a combination that ensures relatively comfortable conditions for visitors. The sunny hours, varying between 9.2 to 9.5 hours, ensure ample daylight, thus facilitating extended exploration hours for tourists.
The worst time to visit Mbarara
Tourists might find the wet seasons, particularly October and April, less conducive for travel due to frequent and heavy rainfall causing travel disruptions and flooding. These months register the highest amount of rainfall, 240mm (9.45") and 182mm (7.17") respectively, and are characterized by relatively high humidity levels, which may lead to discomfort. Further, the shortage of sunshine hours and occasional poor visibility might also detract from the overall visitor experience.
Spring weather in Mbarara
Mbarara, being situated near the equator, does not follow the traditional four-season structure. However, for clarity, 'Spring' in this context represents March, April, and May. This period is known for high rainfall with an average precipitation of 182mm (7.17") in April, making it one of the wettest periods. Average temperatures fluctuate between 15.9°C (60.6°F) and 26.3°C (79.3°F). This season also witnesses relatively less sunlit hours and reduced visibility; however, these months retain a fairly constant temperature range.
Summer weather in Mbarara
Considered 'Summer' months, June, July, and August see lower quantities of rainfall. With an average of 49mm (1.93") in June, these months are relatively dry compared to the rest of the year. Typical temperatures during this period range between 15.4°C (59.7°F) and 25.6°C (78.1°F), while the average sunshine hours range from 9.2 to 9.5 hours, providing adequate light for activities throughout the day.
Autumn weather in Mbarara
September, October, and November, grouped as 'Autumn', is a combination of gradually increasing rainfall. October registers the highest precipitation at 240mm (9.45"). The temperature range during these months extends from a low of 15.4°C (59.7°F) in September to a high of 24.9°C (76.8°F). Despite increased precipitation, sunshine hours maintain a consistent average of 9 hours or above.
Winter weather in Mbarara
In the 'Winter' months of December, January, and February, Mbarara experiences a mild decrease in rainfall compared to the previous months. Average temperatures range from 14.4°C (57.9°F) to 27.3°C (81.1°F), with the warmest month typically being February. Despite it being the local 'Winter', it offers pleasantly warm conditions throughout. Daily sunshine hours remain stable at 9.5 to 9.6 hours, maintaining a moderation in daylight hours and providing substantial time for outdoor pursuits.
Weather in January
January in Mbarara, Uganda experiences a moderate range in temperatures, with a high of 26.6°C (79.9°F) and a low of 14.9°C (58.8°F). Light winds with an average speed of 6.8km/h (4.2mph) blow, providing a gentle breeze for the locals. Weather in January »
Weather in February
February sees a transition towards slightly warmer temperatures, alongside an increase in humidity and rainfall. Mbarara observes the highest temperature of the year, reaching 27.3°C (81.1°F). The difference between the months of January and February is marginal, however, the day-light hours remain constant. Weather in February »
Weather in March
In March, there is a noticeable increase in rainfall, recording 132mm (5.2"), leading to more days with rain showers. This transition signifies the onset of the rainy season in Mbarara. The increase in rainfall correlates with heightened humidity levels, often resulting in early morning mist or fog. Weather in March »
Weather in April
April exhibits the characteristics of a classic rainy season month in Mbarara. Compared to March, there is a significant increase in rainfall, accumulating to 182mm (7.17") over 28.4 rainy days. With increased cloud cover, the visibility drops to 8km (5mi). Weather in April »
Weather in May
Rain continues to pour down in May, though not as much as in April, providing a softening of weather conditions. The humidity reaches the highest point at 86%, bringing moisture-laden air that hangs heavy in Mbarara. Despite the humidity, the city remains vibrant with temperatures consistent with prior months. Weather in May »
Weather in June
June heralds a notable reduction in rainfall, marking the transition from the wet to the dry season. The average high temperature rebounds back to 24.4°C (75.9°F), indicating a return of warmer days. The reduced rainfall allows the city to bask in more sunshine hours while the humidity dips relative to May. Weather in June »
Weather in July
July presents a welcoming change towards clearer skies with rainfall substantially decreasing to 49mm (1.93"). The low precipitation level, paired with warmer temperatures, makes this the driest month in Mbarara. The clear skies and ample sunshine that this month brings increase opportunities for outdoor activities. Weather in July »
Weather in August
August's weather in Mbarara, Uganda indicates a continuous, gentle transition towards the wetter months. Slightly increased rainfall is noticed from July, with the climate maintaining its overall warm pattern. The balance in weather conditions offers a pleasant atmosphere for exploring the city. Weather in August »
Weather in September
September indicates a step back into the rainy season, with rainfall increasing to 194mm (7.64"). This transition also results in increased cloud cover and humidity, making the climate cloudy and damp. The temperature remains consistent, adding to the overall comforting climate of the city. Weather in September »
Weather in October
October presents itself as the month with the highest rainfall, reaching 240mm (9.45"). This heightened rainfall often results in lower visibility, lending the city a mystical charm. While the weather remains temperate, the elevated rainfall and humidity call for a raincoat or umbrella for those venturing outdoors. Weather in October »
Weather in November
In November, rainfall begins to decrease, a signal of the eventual return of the dry season. However, the city's weather remains dominated by rain showers and high humidity. Despite the continued precipitation, temperatures remain relatively warm, maintaining Mbarara's tropical charm. Weather in November »
Weather in December
December marks a significant reduction in rainfall as the dry season sets in Mbarara. The overall weather conditions shift from the heavy downpours of past months to the drier, more subtle variations of the dry season. With an average high of 24.3°C (75.7°F), the ambiance remains quite comfortable. Weather in December »
Updated: Jul 7, 2024
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Published by: Weather Atlas | About Us
Data Sources | Weather Forecasting & Climate
Frequently asked questions
How many days does it rain?
In Mbarara, during the entire year, the rain falls for 281.7 days and collects up to 1679mm (66.1") of precipitation.
What month has the most sunshine?
The month with the most sunshine is January, with an average of 9.6h of sunshine.
What are the months with the highest UV index?
The months with the highest UV index are January, February and July, with an average maximum UV index of 6.
What is the hottest time of year in Mbarara?
February is the warmest month of the year, registering average temperatures as high as 27.3°C (81.1°F) and as low as 16.2°C (61.2°F).
What are the months with the lowest UV index in Mbarara?
March through June, August through December, with an average maximum UV index of 5, are months with the lowest UV index.
What part of the year is the coldest?
Mbarara notes the coldest temperatures in May, with a average high of 23.2°C (73.8°F) and a low of 15.1°C (59.2°F).
What is the most humid month?
The most humid month is May, with an average relative humidity of 86%.
What is the month with the least sunshine?
The month with the least sunshine is May, with an average of 8.3h of sunshine.
What is the month with the shortest days?
June has the shortest days of the year, with an average of 12h and 6min of daylight.
What is the least humid month?
July is the least humid month, with an average relative humidity of 62%.
What is the driest month?
The month with the least rainfall in Mbarara is July, when the rain falls for 14.7 days and typically collects 49mm (1.93") of precipitation.
What is the wettest month?
The month with the most rainfall is October, when the rain falls for 29.4 days and typically aggregates up to 240mm (9.45") of precipitation.
When are the longest days?
The month with the longest days is December, with an average of 12h and 12min of daylight.
Is there Daylight Saving Time (DST)?
Mbarara does not observe Daylight Saving Time (DST). EAT timezone is used over the entire year.
Average temperature
Mbarara, Uganda
The warmest month (with the highest average high temperature) is February (27.3°C).
The month with the lowest average high temperature is May (23.2°C).
The month with the highest average low temperature is August (17.5°C).
The coldest month (with the lowest average low temperature) is December (14.4°C).
Average pressure
Mbarara, Uganda
- Average pressure in January:
1012.2mbar - Average pressure in February:
1011.4mbar - Average pressure in March:
1011.9mbar - Average pressure in April:
1012.7mbar - Average pressure in May:
1014mbar - Average pressure in June:
1014.8mbar
- Average pressure in July:
1014.5mbar - Average pressure in August:
1013.8mbar - Average pressure in September:
1013.4mbar - Average pressure in October:
1012.4mbar - Average pressure in November:
1012.3mbar - Average pressure in December:
1012.5mbar
The month with the highest atmospheric pressure is June (1014.8mbar).
The month with the lowest atmospheric pressure is February (1011.4mbar).
Average wind speed
Mbarara, Uganda
- Average wind speed in January:
6.8km/h - Average wind speed in February:
6.6km/h - Average wind speed in March:
6km/h - Average wind speed in April:
6.3km/h - Average wind speed in May:
7.4km/h - Average wind speed in June:
7.7km/h
- Average wind speed in July:
8km/h - Average wind speed in August:
7.7km/h - Average wind speed in September:
6.4km/h - Average wind speed in October:
6km/h - Average wind speed in November:
5.4km/h - Average wind speed in December:
6km/h
The windiest month (with the highest average wind speed) is July (8km/h).
The calmest month (with the lowest average wind speed) is November (5.4km/h).
Average humidity
Mbarara, Uganda
The month with the highest relative humidity is May (86%).
The month with the lowest relative humidity is July (62%).
Average rainfall
Mbarara, Uganda
- Average rainfall in January:
59mm - Average rainfall in February:
69mm - Average rainfall in March:
132mm - Average rainfall in April:
182mm - Average rainfall in May:
173mm - Average rainfall in June:
117mm
- Average rainfall in July:
49mm - Average rainfall in August:
119mm - Average rainfall in September:
194mm - Average rainfall in October:
240mm - Average rainfall in November:
221mm - Average rainfall in December:
124mm
The wettest month (with the highest rainfall) is October (240mm).
The driest month (with the least rainfall) is July (49mm).
Average rainfall days
Mbarara, Uganda
- Average rainfall days in January:
15.8 days - Average rainfall days in February:
17.8 days - Average rainfall days in March:
25 days - Average rainfall days in April:
28.4 days - Average rainfall days in May:
27.7 days - Average rainfall days in June:
20.8 days
- Average rainfall days in July:
14.7 days - Average rainfall days in August:
20.8 days - Average rainfall days in September:
26.7 days - Average rainfall days in October:
29.4 days - Average rainfall days in November:
29.1 days - Average rainfall days in December:
25.5 days
The month with the highest number of rainy days is October (29.4 days).
The month with the least rainy days is July (14.7 days).
Average daylight / Average sunshine
Mbarara, Uganda
- Average daylight in January:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in February:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in March:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in April:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in May:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in June:
12h and 1min
- Average daylight in July:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in August:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in September:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in October:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in November:
12h and 1min - Average daylight in December:
12h and 1min
The month with the longest days is December (Average daylight: 12h and 12min).
The month with the shortest days is June (Average daylight: 12h and 6min).
- Average sunshine in January:
9h and 4min - Average sunshine in February:
9h and 3min - Average sunshine in March:
9h and 0min - Average sunshine in April:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in May:
8h and 2min - Average sunshine in June:
9h and 1min
- Average sunshine in July:
9h and 3min - Average sunshine in August:
9h and 1min - Average sunshine in September:
9h and 2min - Average sunshine in October:
8h and 4min - Average sunshine in November:
8h and 3min - Average sunshine in December:
9h and 0min
The month with the most sunshine is January (Average sunshine: 9h and 36min).
The month with the least sunshine is May (Average sunshine: 8h and 18min).
Average sunshine days
Mbarara, Uganda
- Average sunshine days in January:
13.8 days - Average sunshine days in February:
8.8 days - Average sunshine days in March:
4.6 days - Average sunshine days in April:
1.2 days - Average sunshine days in May:
2.6 days - Average sunshine days in June:
8.3 days
- Average sunshine days in July:
15.1 days - Average sunshine days in August:
8.7 days - Average sunshine days in September:
2 days - Average sunshine days in October:
1.3 days - Average sunshine days in November:
0.6 days - Average sunshine days in December:
4.5 days
The month with the most sunshine days is July (15.1 days).
The month with the least sunshine days is November (0.6 days).
Average UV index
Mbarara, Uganda
The months with the highest UV index are January, February and July (UV index 6).
The months with the lowest UV index are March, April, May, June, August, September, October, November and December (UV index 5).
Average cloud cover
Mbarara, Uganda
The month with the most cloud cover is May (Cloud cover 41).
The month with the least cloud cover is January (Cloud cover 22).
Average visibility
Mbarara, Uganda
The months with the highest visibility are January, February, June, July and August (10km).
The months with the lowest visibility are April, May and November (8km).
